EXPERT OPINION least 1 % of global energy consumption , sustainability takes on a more intense and innovative path . Based on the sheer size and scope of its business , data centres , like enterprises , have an obligation to implement and promote more sustainable choices and solutions .
If we think of these hubs as the epicentre of connectivity , data storage and processing , as well as a variety of business-critical applications , it is only natural to believe that data storage and Internet use will continue to increase in the years ahead .
This does mean , however , that there is an expectation to keep energy consumption at sustainable levels using green technology in data centres . After all , we ’ re growing ever more dependent on the kind of technology that ’ s driving innovation , such as 5G , IoT and Machine Learning , all of which require data centres to operate .
It could even be argued that data centres have an ethical responsibility to be champions of change and therefore take on the crucial role of implementing measures that minimise the impact that data storing is having on our ecosystem .
Some businesses are already making pledges to reduce environmental footprint and invest in more sustainable energy solutions as part of their long-term green strategy . But what can be done to drive change in this space ?
What can data centres do to effect change ?
There are many steps being taken to address the energy usage of data centres , but this process will need to be accelerated if consumption is to be kept to a minimum , especially when considering that data usage increased by 47 % just in the first quarter of 2020 , during the first COVID-19 lockdown .
Data compression is one example , which allows for far greater levels of
DATA CENTRES HAVE A REAL OPPORTUNITY TO DRIVE CHANGE BY EMBRACING SUSTAINABILITY . www . intelligentdatacentres . com
41